News Summary
A tragic shooting at the CDC headquarters resulted in the death of Officer David Rose. The shooter, Patrick Joseph White, opened fire before taking his own life. Reports suggest mental health struggles and discontent with COVID-19 vaccinations may have been factors. The incident has sparked concerns about security measures and mental health support systems at the CDC.
Gunman Kills Police Officer in Shooting at CDC Headquarters
A shocking incident unfolded at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters as a gunman opened fire on Friday, resulting in the tragic death of Officer David Rose, a 33-year-old Marine veteran. The shooter, identified as **_Patrick Joseph White, 30_**, unleashed chaos shortly before 5 p.m., firing approximately **_200 rounds_** into six buildings on the CDC campus, leaving employees in a state of terror.
White, who had reportedly broken into his father’s safe to access five firearms—mostly long guns—had been struggling with serious mental health issues, having been reported to police three times over the past year for **_suicidal thoughts_**. Sadly, the chaotic event culminated with White taking his own life with a self-inflicted gunshot wound after the horrendous attack.
Prior to the shooting, White had shared his discontent about the COVID-19 vaccine, claiming that his health deteriorated after his vaccination. These claims were documented, and law enforcement was aware of his suicidal ideation weeks before the shooting, raising questions about the support systems in place for individuals facing mental health crises.
Following the attack, over **_500 shell casings_** were found at the crime scene, a testament to the scale of the gunfire directed at the CDC buildings. Victims in the vicinity described the **_frightening sounds_** of gunfire that sent people into a panic, highlighting the sense of fear that gripped the campus during this terrifying moment.
Officer Rose, who joined the DeKalb County Police Department in September 2024 after serving in Afghanistan, became a hero in a moment of chaos. As the attack continues to unfold in the public eye, it prompts a review of the security measures currently in place at the CDC. U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited the CDC campus, meeting with employees and family members of Officer Rose in the aftermath of this tragic event.
Employees have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the safety protocols implemented at the CDC, and an all-agency meeting was held to address concerns over security measures following this distressing incident. Critics have called attention to the need for enhanced safety procedures, particularly during a time when **_vaccine misinformation_** is rampant and public health systems are under scrutiny.
Investigators are working diligently alongside the FBI to analyze the written documents found in White’s residence that appear to advocate against COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as to better understand his mental state leading up to the shooting. It’s important to note that White had no prior criminal history and was noted to be unstable in the weeks leading to this heart-wrenching incident.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the CDC headquarters?
A gunman named Patrick Joseph White opened fire at the U.S. CDC headquarters, killing Officer David Rose in the process. White fired about 200 rounds into multiple buildings before taking his own life.
What was the motivation behind the attack?
Investigators believe the shooter may have been motivated by mental health issues and an expressed discontent with COVID-19 vaccinations, as he had voiced suicidal thoughts and dissatisfaction with vaccines prior to the attack.
What are the consequences of the incident?
The situation has raised urgent questions about the CDC’s security measures and the mental health support systems available to those struggling in the community. An all-agency meeting was held to address the employees’ concerns regarding safety protocols in light of the incident.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | U.S. CDC headquarters in Atlanta |
| Shooter’s Name | Patrick Joseph White |
| Causalities | Officer David Rose killed |
| Rounds Fired | Approximately 200 |
| Firearms Used | Five firearms, mostly long guns |
| Mental Health Reports | Three prior reports to police for suicidal thoughts |
| Investigation Collaborators | GBI, FBI, and behavioral profilers |
| Security Review | Undergoing review in light of the incident |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- ABC News
- Wikipedia: Shooting at the CDC
- CBS News
- Google Search: CDC shooting 2025
- New York Times
- Google Scholar: CDC shooting
- Rolling Stone
- Encyclopedia Britannica: CDC shooting
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Google News: CDC shooting Aug 2025
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
